Thong Sala Beach serves as the primary gateway to Koh Phangan, welcoming travelers from across Thailand and beyond. Located on the southwest coast, this vibrant hub offers more than just ferry connections—it’s the island’s commercial heart with convenient access to pristine beaches and famous party destinations.
Discovering Thong Sala Beach
Stretching approximately one kilometer along the southwest coast, Thong Sala Beach offers a unique blend of local culture and tropical beauty. While not primarily a swimming destination due to the busy pier, the beach becomes quieter and more pleasant as you walk south. During high season (December to March), the waters are ideal for swimming.
The town itself bustles with essential services including banks, ATMs, pharmacies, shops, and restaurants. The famous Saturday Walking Street Market transforms the area into a pedestrian paradise filled with local crafts, street food, and live entertainment. It’s an authentic Thai experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Ferry Routes and Schedules to Thong Sala
Multiple ferry operators connect Thong Sala Pier to key destinations, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the region.
Route: From Koh Samui to Thong Sala Pier
Lomprayah High Speed Ferries depart from Mae Nam and Bangrak piers at 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM, and 4:30 PM, taking 20-30 minutes. Raja Ferry operates from Lipa Noi Pier with three daily departures at 9:30 AM, 4:30 PM, and 6:30 PM. Seatran Discovery also services this route from Bangrak Pier. Ticket prices range from 250-400 THB per person.
Route: From Koh Tao to Thong Sala Pier
Lomprayah operates high-speed services at 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM, with journey times of approximately one hour. Songserm offers a more economical option at 9:30 AM, taking about 1 hour 45 minutes. Prices range from 450-600 THB.
Route: From Surat Thani/Donsak Pier to Thong Sala Pier
Multiple operators provide bus and ferry combinations with departures starting from 5:00 AM. The complete journey takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, including transfers from Surat Thani town or airport.
Book Your Tickets Online with Busonlineticket
Planning your journey has never been easier with Busonlineticket, Thailand’s trusted online booking platform. Instead of waiting in queues or dealing with uncertain availability, secure your ferry tickets in advance from anywhere.
Busonlineticket offers real-time availability and instant confirmation for all major operators including Lomprayah, Raja Ferry, Songserm, and Seatran Discovery. Compare schedules and prices across operators to find the best option for your budget. The secure payment system accepts international credit cards, and e-tickets are delivered directly to your email.
During peak seasons, especially around Full Moon Party dates, ferries sell out quickly. Booking through Busonlineticket guarantees your preferred departure time and eliminates stress. The platform also offers combination packages including bus transfers from Bangkok to Koh Phangan, Surat Thani Airport, or railway stations for seamless multi-leg journeys.
From Thong Sala Pier to Mae Haad Beach
Mae Haad Beach on the northwest coast is famous for its white sand and the spectacular sandbank connecting to Koh Ma island during low tide. The distance from Thong Sala Pier is approximately 14 kilometers, taking 15-20 minutes by road.
Songthaews (shared pickup trucks) are the most economical option at 150-200 THB per person, departing once full. Motorcycle rentals cost 200-300 THB per day, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Private taxis provide the most convenience at 250-300 THB per person or 800-1,000 THB for groups. Mae Haad offers excellent snorkeling around Koh Ma, part of a National Marine Park, perfect for families seeking tranquility.
Getting to Haad Rin Beach from Thong Sala
Haad Rin Beach, home to the legendary Full Moon Party, sits at the southern tip of the island. Even outside party nights, it attracts visitors with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters on both Sunrise Beach (Haad Rin Nok) and Sunset Beach (Haad Rin Nai).
The journey from Thong Sala covers 11-13 kilometers, taking about 30 minutes. Songthaews depart regularly from near the pier, costing 100-150 THB per person and filling quickly after ferry arrivals. Motorcycle rentals are available for 200-300 THB daily, though the route includes challenging hills requiring experience. Private taxis cost 200-250 THB per person or can be chartered for groups.
Alternatively, travelers can reach Haad Rin directly via the Haad Rin Queen Ferry from Koh Samui’s Big Buddha Pier, with tickets around 200 THB plus 500 THB for motorcycle transport.
Practical Tips for Your Journey
Thong Sala Pier operates from early morning (5:30 AM) until early evening (6:30 PM) according to ferry schedules. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Clear signage in English and Thai helps navigate to correct boarding areas.
Upon arrival, transportation options are immediately available. Walking 300 meters from the pier area can help you find better taxi rates. Essential services including ATMs, convenience stores, and restaurants are within five minutes’ walk.
Ferry schedules vary seasonally and may be affected by weather, particularly during monsoon season (May-November). Always verify current schedules and book tickets in advance through Busonlineticket for a smooth, worry-free journey to this tropical paradise.
Thong Sala Beach Ferry schedules, routes to Mae Haad & Haad Rin, transport tips & online booking. Your Koh Phangan adventure starts here
